Chapter 2 ( Dazed Egoist )

After suffering that defeat, I walked back to the dressing room with my head hung low, most of my teammates doing the same. Even Tobe, the guy who was usually overly cheerful and optimistic, sat down, gripping his head in frustration.

As I sat down, I looked over at Isshiki Iroha, one of our football club managers. From her body language, I could tell she wanted to say something but just couldn't find the words.

Then, our coach walked into the dressing room to give us a pep talk. "I know this loss hurts, guys," he began, his voice a mix of comfort and frustration. "But remember, it's not the end. We learn from our mistakes and come back stronger. Keep your heads up, we fought well."

This helped to ease the suffocating tension in the room as my teammates began chatting about the game, bickering, and engaging in random conversations. Somehow, the focus shifted to me.

"Man, Hikigaya is pretty impressive. That 1v11 in extra time was some hardcore stuff!" my teammate Tomiyasu remarked, patting me on the back as I glanced at him.

"I didn't even know you could hit a ball that hard," Rindo added, chugging a bottle of water. "But I kind of expected it."

The captain, Hayama, joined in. "Hikitani-kun always had a killer shot, but you rarely see it because he's usually scoring from close range." I appreciate the observation but once this guy… He's always calling me Hikitani! Even Tomiyasu calls me by my real name, I mentally sigh as I take a gulp of my water.

"Guess he's lucky, huh? Always at the right place at the right time," Mochizuki, our center back, chimed in, prompting me to give him a quick glance. Luck? Is that what you call it? The countless hours of practice, the blisters, the late nights spent perfecting that shot—all boiled down to mere luck? Typical. People always want to reduce effort to luck when they can't comprehend the dedication behind it. But I bit my tongue. No use trying to explain this to someone who probably thinks scoring goals is as simple as being in the right place at the right time.

I let out a small sigh, nodding slightly instead. Let them think what they want. It's not like their opinions will change my approach to the game. This cynicism, this armor I've built over the years, it's not something that can be easily dismantled by a few misguided comments. Besides, what's the point of correcting them? They wouldn't understand, and it would only make me look petty.

I caught Hayama's eye for a moment, and he gave me a knowing look. Perhaps he understood a bit more than the others. Or maybe not. Either way, I wasn't about to delve into a monologue about the nature of effort and recognition. Better to let them keep their simplistic views. It's less exhausting that way.

The conversation continued to swirl around me, with my teammates delving into other topics, but my mind lingered on Mochizuki's comment. I could feel the tension easing from the room as the chatter grew louder and more animated.

"Hey, Hikigaya, we're planning to hit up the ramen place after this. You in?" Tomiyasu asked, his eyes bright with anticipation.

I considered the offer for a moment. The usual me would decline, preferring solitude over socializing. But something tugged at me, a faint whisper reminding me that isolating myself wouldn't lead anywhere. Besides, I had already made some strides in connecting with my teammates.

"Sure," I replied, surprising even myself. Tomiyasu grinned widely and clapped me on the shoulder.

"Awesome! Let's finish up here and head out."

As we wrapped up our post-game routines, I found myself oddly looking forward to the outing. Maybe it was the lingering adrenaline from the game or the genuine camaraderie I felt from my teammates, but for once, I decided to go with the flow.

At the ramen shop, the atmosphere was lively and relaxed. The savory aroma of broth and noodles filled the air, mingling with the sound of laughter and clinking chopsticks. I settled into a seat between Rindo and Hayama, feeling a sense of belonging that was still foreign but not entirely unwelcome.

"So, Hikigaya," Hayama began, leaning back in his chair, "how do you stay so calm under pressure? That 1v11 was insane."

I shrugged, trying to downplay it. "I just focus on the moment. Nothing else matters when you're out there."

"Man, I wish I had your nerves of steel," Rindo said, shaking his head. "I'm always overthinking everything."

"It's not nerves of steel," I thought but didn't say. "It's just a survival mechanism." Instead, I replied, "You just need to find something to anchor you. For me, it's the game itself."

Hayama nodded thoughtfully. "That makes sense. You've got a unique perspective, Hikigaya."

Unique. That was one way to put it. Another word could be "isolated." But as I looked around the table at my teammates, their faces alight with camaraderie and genuine interest, I felt a tiny shift within me. Maybe, just maybe, I didn't have to be so isolated after all.

"Hey, Hikigaya," Hayama continued, his tone gentle but earnest, "you're really talented. You should know that. We're lucky to have you on the team."

I glanced at him, trying to gauge his sincerity. With Hayama, it was always difficult to tell. He had a way of seeing the best in everyone, even me. His kindness was almost disarming, making it hard to stay cynical.

"Thanks," I muttered, looking down at my bowl. Compliments made me uncomfortable, but there was something about Hayama's demeanor that made it hard to accept.

Hayama, the epitome of a riajuu, the kind of person I can't stand. He lives in a different world, surrounded by friends, basking in their admiration. Yet here he was, acting all friendly. I knew he was a good player, a valuable asset to the team, but that was the extent of my acknowledgment.

As the night wore on and the ramen bowls emptied, I found myself laughing and engaging more than I expected. It was a small step, but an important one. And as we left the shop, the cool night air refreshing after the warmth inside, I felt a sense of contentment.

"See you at practice tomorrow," Tomiyasu called out as we parted ways.

"Yeah, see you," I replied, a small smile tugging at my lips.

Hayama walked beside me for a bit, his usual friendly aura comforting in the quiet night. "You know, Hikigaya, I really believe in you. And I think the team does too. We might not always show it the right way, but you're an important part of us." Surprised by the fact that he called me by my real name, I nodded, appreciating his words more than I let on. Maybe luck had nothing to do with it after all. Maybe it was all about being in the right place at the right time—and choosing to stay there. Even if I couldn't stand the guy, I had to admit that he made it a little easier to stay.

The night was cool and quiet as I made my way home, my mind still buzzing with the evening's events. Despite my usual reluctance to socialize, tonight had been... tolerable. Maybe even enjoyable, if I was willing to admit it. But now, the familiar comfort of solitude beckoned, and I was eager to retreat into it.

As I approached my house, I noticed the porch light was on, casting a warm glow on the front steps. The door opened before I could reach for the handle, and my little sister Komachi appeared, her face lighting up with a bright, welcoming smile.

"Onii-chan, you're back! How was the game?" she chirped, practically bouncing on her feet.

I couldn't help but smile a bit at her enthusiasm. "It was fine. We lost."

"Really? Well, you still did your best, right? You're amazing, Onii-chan!" Komachi beamed, stepping aside to let me in. "Are you hungry? I made some dinner, but I didn't know when you'd be back, so I might have... um, eaten a little bit of it."

I sighed, shaking my head. "It's fine, Komachi. I'm not that hungry anyway."

We walked into the living room, and I plopped down on the couch, feeling the day's exhaustion catch up with me. Komachi sat beside me, her eyes shining with curiosity and a hint of mischief.

"So, did anything interesting happen?" she asked, leaning in conspiratorially.

I shrugged. "Not much. Just the usual post-game talk and then ramen with the team."

"Ramen? With the team? Wow, you're really branching out, Onii-chan!" Komachi teased, nudging me playfully. "I never thought I'd see the day."

"Yeah, well, don't get used to it," I muttered, though her teasing brought a slight smile to my face.

Komachi leaned back, looking thoughtful. "You know, Onii-chan, it's nice to see you hanging out with your teammates. You should do it more often. It might help you see things in a different light."

I raised an eyebrow at her. "And what makes you think I need a different perspective?"

"Just a hunch," she said with a wink. "Anyway, I was going through some of your old projects for school. You always did such a great job. Think you could help me with my history paper?"

"Again? How many times do I have to tell you that you need to do your own work, Komachi?" I said, feigning annoyance.

"But Onii-chan, your work is so good! And besides, you know how much I hate history," she pouted, giving me her best puppy-dog eyes.

I sighed, knowing I was going to give in. "Fine. But only because I don't want you to fail. Again."

Komachi squealed in delight and hugged me tightly. "Thank you, Onii-chan! You're the best!"

"Yeah, yeah," I grumbled, though I couldn't hide the warmth spreading in my chest. Despite her airheadedness and tendency to rely on me, Komachi's cheerful presence was something I cherished.

As we settled down to work on her paper, I couldn't help but think back to the evening with my teammates. Maybe Komachi was right. Maybe it wouldn't hurt to let my guard down a bit more often. Not for the riajuus like Hayama, but for the small moments of connection that made life a bit more bearable.

"Hey, Komachi," I said, breaking the comfortable silence. "Thanks."

She looked up, surprised. "For what?"

"For being you," I replied, ruffling her hair affectionately.

Komachi giggled, her eyes sparkling. "Anytime, Onii-chan. That earns you ten Komachi points!"

"Only ten?" I said, feigning disappointment. "I thought that was at least worth twenty."

"Hmm," Komachi pretended to ponder, tapping her chin. "Okay, fifteen Komachi points. But no more!"

"Deal," I said with a smirk. "And for helping you with your history paper, I expect at least thirty points."

"Twenty-five," she countered, grinning.

"Fine, twenty-five," I agreed. "But you have to actually pay attention this time."

"Deal, Onii-chan!" she exclaimed, holding out her pinky for a pinky promise.

I hooked my pinky with hers, sealing the deal. Despite our bickering, these moments with Komachi were some of the few times I felt truly at ease. Maybe life wasn't so bad after all, as long as I had my little sister by my side.

"Oh, I almost forgot!" Komachi suddenly exclaimed, hopping off the couch. "A letter came for you right after your match. It's from the Japanese Football Association."

She handed me a sleek envelope with an official-looking seal. My curiosity piqued, I carefully opened it, unfolding the crisp paper inside. As I read, my eyes widened in surprise.

"Hikigaya Hachiman-sama,

YOU'VE BEEN SELECTED FOR A SPECIAL PLAYER TRAINING PROGRAM.

We are pleased to announce that after a rigorous selection process, you have been selected as a JFU designated player for a training program. Therefore, we would like to invite you to the new training project meeting to be held on the XXth of XX.

If you wish to attend, please sign the enclosed consent form and come to the JFU Headquarters building at the designated date and time.

JFU New Project Representative,
Teieri Anri"

I stopped reading, feeling a mixture of shock and disbelief. Komachi was practically bouncing with excitement beside me.

"Onii-chan, this is amazing! You've been selected for a special training program! This is definitely worth a hundred Komachi points!"

I looked at her, her joy contagious, and for a moment, I allowed myself to share in it. Maybe this was a new beginning. A chance to prove myself on a larger stage. And with Komachi's unwavering support, perhaps anything was possible.

"That's not how you use the point system though.." I remarked, whilst Komachi responded with a teehee~

"But, yeah," I continued, a small smile across my face. "Maybe it is."

AN:

Yello, we have met again! It's been a bit long, since I just wanted to make sure this chapter is up to my standards I guess. I also warned most of you that this Hikigaya is really OOC, but we can still see that it's our loner boy! Before I leave, I will put the overall stats of Hikigaya in each chapter. Summarizing his skillset and his caveats, with that, here it is!

Hikigaya Hachiman OVR 85, Potential is XX

Pace : 78

Shot : 86

Pass : 75

Dribble : 84

Defense : 65

Physical : 81

Football Archetype: Complete Forward- Complete Forwards are strikers with great technical ability, clinical finishing, and physical strength, enabling them to fulfil multiple roles. They can link up with and play in others, fashion chances for themselves, finish off team moves and hold up the ball. These players are often best given the freedom to play as they wish, without rigid tactical instruction, as their versatility allows them to be fluid on the pitch.

Playstyle: An intelligent, and tactically apt player, Hikigaya Hachiman fully knows his own strengths and fully utilizing them. As a forward, Hikigaya stands out among his peers with exceptional qualities of a number nine. With remarkable positional sense, a lethal shot, and technical prowess, while also being both footed, he dominates in attack. Beyond scoring goals, his intellect shines as he disrupts passing lanes, anticipates the movement of the opposition, exploiting defensive weaknesses, and applying relentless pressure to regain possession.